A recent report reveals that the iPhone 5c has struggled to gain a foothold in China, unlike its more expensive counterpart the 5s.

While American electronics giant Apple does not reveal information on how many smart phone models it sells in each country, new data from Umeng, China's largest app analytics platform, shows that sales of the iPhone 5c pale in comparison to the 5s and the regular iPhone 5.

Specifically, in the fourth month from the launch of the iPhone 5c in China, the model accounted for slightly less than two per cent of all active iOS devices on Umeng’s app analytics network.

The 5s, in contrast, accounted for 12 per cent, while the regular iPhone 5 has remained a consistent seller.

The iPhone 5c, originally designed as a cheaper alternative to the iPhone 5s, launched in the mainland late September 2013. The device quickly attracted criticism for lacking features and for retailing at a 4,488 yuan (HK$5,687) price point that many customers did not find appealing for a budget phone.

Apple reportedly limited production of the iPhone 5c shortly following the product's launch, and rumours have suggested that the device may be discontinued following the launch of the iPhone 6 later this year.

Umeng collects data through offering tools and cross-promotions to app developers, and currently, more than 75,000 developers and 210,000 apps utilise Umeng in China.

This article was originally reported by Tech in Asia and was edited and republished with permission.